Tactical Operations

Let’s start with a few questions to ask yourself, with examples of answers below:

Q: What media do you want to explore?

A: Media I want to explore are drawing, painting, photography and video.

Q: What space do you need to explore this media?

A: I have a space to paint and draw (from life and from photos). I also have a space where I can control the lighting for photo and video.

Q: What equipment do you need?

A: I am blessed to have acrylic, gouache and oil paints, brushes and canvas. I have pencils, charcoal and paper. I bought some of them and some people were giving away and I snagged them (one person’s trash is another’s treasure). I also have two photography lights so I can control lighting, which makes a huge difference with photography. I have a tripod for my phone to take video and a ring light.

Q: What mindset do you need?

I am starting out with the mindset of a student, and at the same time, a master. I fall on my face quite a bit, but nothing ventured, nothing gained.

The Space and/or the Studio

On this page, you can learn about parts of my art studio, and get some ideas on developing your own. There is no need for a full-blown studio if it’s not in the budget yet, a quiet corner or outdoors will also do. The important thing is to create space to work.

In My Studio:

~ Old books and books that are rare

~ Trinkets and talismans

~ Blank walls and space

~ Easels, canvas, paper, boards and art tools

Questions for Your Studio:

~ How will you work most of the time: sitting or standing?

~ What art materials do you need within arm’s reach?

~ What sustinence do you require while working, physical (food or drink) or mental (books, images, background music, and/or a place to rest)?

~ How will you store finished pieces?

~ What extra materials will you use which are not in the final piece?

~ How will you take breaks: where and why?

~ What are three goals for your studio?